He might have made sporting history by winning Wimbledon, but firefighters reckon Andy Murray caused a fire on the Isle of Sheppey yesterday.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service chiefs believe a Minster man got so caught up in the sporting action that he forgot about oil he had put in the oven.

It caught alight while the spectator witnessed tennis hero Murray serve up victory, but he managed to escape unhurt.

Crews were called to the flat, in Halfway Road, at about 4.50pm.

Watch manager Andy Bridger-Smart said: "It appears the resident had put some oil in the oven to heat up in preparation of making some roast potatoes, but that was forgotten as the Murray match progressed and it caught light.

"It appears the resident had put some oil in the oven... but that was forgotten as the Murray match progressed and it caught light..." - fire chief Andy Bridger-Smart

"Fortunately the man did the right thing and got out before calling us out.

"He wasn't hurt and there was only some minor heat and smoke damage to the kitchen, but clearly this could have been a lot worse."

Around 10 firefighters were sent to the scene and crews fitted smoke alarms as the property did not have any working devices.

Mr Bridger-Smart added: "These sorts of fires can occur very quickly and can cause major damage to your home.

"But they can also be easily avoided if you follow a few basic safety tips and our main advice is to have a working smoke alarm as this early warning can make all the difference."

Millions gathered around a TV to watch Murray become the first British man to lift the men's singles trophy in 77 years yesterday.

His historic Wimbledon victory was watched by a peak television audience of 17.3million viewers.